07.20.2022

Juan Soto Takes the T-Mobile Home Run Derby Crown

The MLB All Star break is underway, and Under Armour athlete Juan Soto is doing anything but slowing down with his impressive win at the 2022 T-Mobile Home Run Derby Monday night at Dodgers Stadium in Los Angeles.

 

Originally a fourth overall seed in the eight-man field, Soto defeated Cleveland Guardians’ Jose Ramirez in the first round and St. Louis Cardinals’ Albert Pujols in the second round, each by one home run. The final round was all #TeamUA as Soto squared off against Seattle Mariners rookie Julio Rodriguez for the grand prize. Rodriguez put on a show of his own in the opening two rounds, belting a total of 63 home runs. The 21-year-old, who like Soto, hails from the Dominican Republic, ousted two-time Derby Champ New York Mets’ Pete Alonso en route to the finals. But it was Soto who stood standing in the end, belting 19 homers in the final at bat to edge Rodriguez by one, and become the second-youngest winner of the Derby crown. At just 23 years of age, Soto is quickly leaving his mark on the sport as was showcased with his 53 total long balls at Dodger Stadium Monday night.

 

“Under Armour was one of the first brands that recognized me and showed me the love,” Soto told Under Armour in February of 2022. Soto, who has been with the brand since 2018, has proven time and time again that he has what it takes to compete at the highest level. When speaking to his inspiration and what helps him break through the noise, Soto said, “Family is what keeps me motivated and staying patient and positive, and I’m excited to keep rolling with the team and play some baseball.”

 

Heading into the All Star break and in celebration of their achievements, Under Armour gifted its athletes Soto, Rodriguez and Los Angeles Dodgers’ Freddie Freeman a home plate-inspired gift that included custom cleats, gloves, and sunglasses. The cleats, customized by designers Kreative Custom Kicks and Dez Customz, paid homage to the individual player’s signature habits, which for Soto is the “Soto shuffle.” Rounding out the All-Star roster for #TeamUA was Phillies outfielder Bryce Harper, the reigning NL MVP. Harper was unfortunately unable to participate as he recovers from a thumb injury.

“Soto is extraordinary both on and off the field,” said Sean Eggert, SVP of Global Sports Marketing at Under Armour. “He’s a one-of-a-kind talent with a bright future and seeing him win on the big stage made us incredibly proud to support his journey to compete. We’re excited to see what he does next, and we’ll be there to cheer him on along the way.”

 

Congratulations, Juan. You are destined for greatness, and this is just the start.